“Bringing astrophotographers one step closer to capturing the majestic vastness and beauty of space is a challenge that Nikon has undertaken with the D810A, empowering enthusiasts with the best dedicated model of unprecedented image quality,” said Hiroaki Ono, General Manager of International Marketing Division Imaging Group, Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd.  “The DSLR marries advanced imaging technology and a deep understanding of the obstacles that astrophotographers face. This camera, precisely enhanced for the craft, offers them a new perspective in stunning detail. Its 36.3 megapixels and unique ability to capture subjects with H-alpha wavelengths ensure rich vibrant capture, for images of the cosmos that are true to the eye.”

• Vivid clarity for a masterpiece: One of the challenges astrophotographers face when they point their cameras to the sky, is the difficulty in observing the live view image which is often too dark, especially when photographing in the wilderness away from light pollution. The D810A offers an intelligent solution to this with the live view preview function which displays a brighter, clearer preview image when the shutter speed is set at 30 seconds or longer*², enabling easier focusing and framing adjustment, while minimizing misaligned focus on the desired subject.

• Framed for perfection: Take a closer look at the stars and frame the perfect shot with the ability to enlarge live view images up to approximately 23 times. This helps astrophotographers achieve perfect framing and precise focusing, while retaining high definition in the LCD display.

4. Front-row seats to the greatest show on earth
• Striking details with minimised distortion: The D810A is especially adept at capturing crisp, clear images of the moon’s surface or landscape photos with minimal blur, when using telephoto lenses. An electronic front-curtain shutter can be enabled to reduce internal mechanical vibration, by eliminating the movement of the conventional front curtain of a mechanical shutter. Vibration from mirror movement is also reduced with mirror-up shooting, increasing image clarity.

• Uninterrupted inspiration: Smooth continuous shooting has never been easier, with the ability to take an unlimited number of high-quality JPEG images, a feature that is particularly handy when capturing beautiful light trails across the night sky. When using the CH or CL release mode with a shutter speed 4 seconds or longer, the duration of continuous shooting can be extended indefinitely, as long as memory card capacity and battery status permit. Astrophotographers can also capture astronomical phenomena in action with cinematic quality, time-lapse video.

5. A Capable Companion
• Built for journeys: Venturing out to photograph the unknown, the premium design and build of the D810A ensures that astrophotographers have reliable equipment that helps them capture their best shot, even in less than favourable weather conditions. Inheriting the robust, weather-resistant design from the Nikon D810, this FX-format DSLR offers a comprehensive seal against dust and water droplets, with a grip that sits comfortably in the hand for steady shooting.

For improved product endurance, various components have been repeatedly tested, such as a newly-designed, highly accurate and durable shutter, tested for 200,000 cycles with the unit actually loaded on the camera. This in turn provides photographers with reliability and years of trouble-free image capture.

• Creative support: A variety of accessories to support the enthusiasm for the craft is also available, making astrophotography easier and more enjoyable. From a remote cord for remote shutter release, battery pack for longer battery life and uninterrupted captures, to a GPS unit which enables the recording of latitude, longitude, altitude, and Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) where photos were taken, these equipment are ready to assist an astrophotographer’s exploration of the galaxy. The new Picture Control system is also supported by the D810A and users can utilize the free Capture NX-D software application to process and adjust RAW images for full-scale photofinishing.

¹ The D810A is a digital SLR camera designed exclusively for astrophotography. When shooting under light sources with a significant amount of near-infrared wavelengths, or capturing common subjects exhibiting high reflectance at near-infrared wavelengths, resulting images may exhibit an unusually red cast. Because an appropriate colour reproduction cannot be obtained, this model is not recommended for general photography.

² When Bulb or Time is set at M mode or M* mode, or when the shutter speed is set at 60, 120, 180, 240, 300, 600 or 900 seconds at M* mode